Definition Essay Overview
Definition is a rhetorical style that uses various techniques to impress upon the reader the meaning of a term, idea, or concept. Definition may be used for an entire essay but is often used as a rhetorical style within an essay that may mix rhetorical styles. For example, you may need to use definition in order to fully explain a concept before you make an argument about that concept.
A definition essay is structured around the goal of defining a term, concept, or idea. While you may start off with a simple dictionary definition, your essay will, ultimately, contain an extended definition. There are many techniques you can use to extend a definition in a definition essay (to be discussed further).
NOTE: A common pitfall in writing a definition essay is assuming your readers know the connotation (the implied meaning) of a specific word. It’s important to remember that there are both literal and implied meanings to words and concepts, something that will be discussed in more detail on the next page.
LICENSES AND ATTRIBUTIONS
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